According to the National Interagency Fire Center, this has been one of the worst fire seasons, setting a record for the most land burned in more than a decade. Obviously, we have been hit hard in Lake County and natural disasters such as these can leave communities in despair. Life as we know it has changed drastically, and it is important to find ways to keep ourselves healthy and moving forward.
Take it day-by-day
You cannot plan for disaster. Until you are able to revisit long term goals that have been altered or put on hold, just focus on what you can do now. Try making a list at the end of each day for what you want to accomplish tomorrow. Include your tasks and your breaks. Example:
1. Reach out to local nonprofits and businesses for help and resources
2. Drink enough water
3. Breathing exercises before bed
4. Check in with loved ones and neighbors
Breathing exercises and deep breathing
When you are in a state of stress, taking a break to breathe can do wonders for your health and wellbeing. If you are mindful of your breath, you may actually decrease stress. Aim to breathe from your diaphragm. Inhale through your nose, and exhale from your nose or mouth.
Try this breathing exercise:
• Breathe in deeply to the count of five
• Hold the breath as you count to three
• Exhale as you count to five
Repeat this until you feel a sense of calm
Bonus: If you have this down, try repeating a phrase during your breathing exercise. It can be a simple observance such as, “I am breathing in. I am breathing out.” Or a comforting thought, like, “I am human, and it is okay to feel stressed,” or “I will take this day-by-day.”
Movement
As you try to gain a sense of normalcy again, incorporating an exercise routine can be a great form of release. Don’t pressure yourself. Set a goal to start with 10 minutes each day and build from there. Exercising releases endorphins which create feelings of calm and happiness.
If you aren’t sure what to do to get started, simply try taking a walk — even better ask another person in your community if they’d like to walk with you. Another idea: if you have a smartphone, download the free “7-minute workout” app or other apps that inspire and encourage you.
Another good starting point is simple movement and dance. Find a space where you feel comfortable to jump around, move, stretch and dance. If you have children, they might enjoy this as an opportunity to get silly with you.
Reach out to others
It is important in times of crisis to stay connected with our neighbors and loved ones. One way you can do that is by offering a hug. Hugs naturally boost our feelings of happiness. They release tension and make both parties feel better.
You may find yourself without the accessibility or resources you once had. Reach out to your community to find out where you can get support with food, clothing, finances, etc. Some places to start would be churches, banks, health clinics, hospitals, grocery stores, schools, government agencies and other nonprofits or businesses in your area.
Whether it means hugging a neighbor or asking for help from your community — don’t be afraid to reach out, and remember that you are not alone.
Enjoy balanced meals
It is always important to eat balanced meals that sustain your energy, especially in times of stress. Eating well keeps you functioning at optimal levels, and will help ease feelings of stress, anxiety or depression.
When you can, enjoy a meal with others. If you don’t already have a self-care item scheduled in your day, a meal is a great opportunity.
Just say “No” to survivor’s guilt
If your home survived and your neighbor’s didn’t, you may feel sense of survivor’s guilt. Know that this is normal, but not needed. Feeling guilty for having when others have not does not serve a purpose or minimize another’s feeling of loss or grief. The best thing you can do is listen, offer support and be a friend.
Other ways to stay calm and healthy:
• Keep a journal
• Read
• Listen to music
• Take a bath
• Use a stress ball
• Cook or bake
• Sit quietly/meditate
• Get a good night’s sleep
• Take breaks when you need to
• Talk to others
• Acknowledge negative feelings
• Allow yourself to feel good
• Know your reactions are normal
